LANSING - In an effort to enhance security and respond to growing concerns of political threats and violence, the authorities at the Michigan State Capitol have become the first in the nation to deploy an artificial intelligence (AI) gun-detection system developed by ZeroEyes.

ZeroEyes, a Pennsylvania-based firm, previously implemented this cutting-edge technology at Oxford High School following a tragic mass shooting incident. Now, Michigan's State Capitol follows suit, utilizing this state-of-the-art system to analyze video footage from existing surveillance cameras and identify any brandished or drawn firearms.

This AI gun-detection system is the latest addition to a series of security measures implemented at the Michigan Capitol, particularly in response to armed protests observed in 2020. As part of these measures, the Michigan Capitol Commission recently approved the installation of metal detectors inside the building and imposed a comprehensive indoor gun ban, with the exception of lawmakers holding concealed-weapons permits.

Under the lease agreement with ZeroEyes, the Michigan Capitol Commission will pay approximately $3,000 per month for the utilization of this advanced system. Rob Blackshaw, the executive director of the state Capitol Commission, emphasized that the primary objective behind these security measures is to ensure the safety of individuals working at and visiting the Capitol, while minimizing the potential for a mass shooting incident.

The ZeroEyes system will leverage the existing video surveillance network within the Capitol, covering both indoor and outdoor areas. While openly carried firearms are still allowed outside the Capitol grounds, the AI technology will enable immediate detection of any gun activity. Triggered images will swiftly be assessed by trained specialists at ZeroEyes, comprising military and law enforcement veterans. If a threat is confirmed, alerts and actionable intelligence will be promptly relayed to Capitol police within moments.

According to Blackshaw, the AI system is designed to enhance security by identifying any firearms inside the building, even if someone manages to bypass the existing metal detectors. Consequently, it allows law enforcement officials to promptly respond to potential threats. The technology was tested last week and was functioning as intended, though it has not yet been deployed for real-time reporting, according to Blackshaw.

With the implementation of the ZeroEyes AI gun-detection system, Michigan's Capitol aims to employ an additional layer of protection and proactively safeguard the premises from potential harm. By leveraging innovative technologies, state police will be equipped with timely information to identify and respond to any firearm-related incidents, both inside the building and on the Capitol grounds.